On Friday, L’Equipe reported Chelsea had worked behind the scenes to appoint a manager even before parting ways with Enzo Maresca. RC Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior was the favourite target.
Later that day, Rosenior confirmed contact with the Premier League side. Their owners, BlueCo also own the French club were in discussions.
At the weekend, the Ligue 1 side had to settle for a 1-1 draw against OGC Nice. A fresh report from L’Equipe states Rosenior returned with the club from their away trip.
The 41-year-old then took a flight to London because Chelsea are ‘further along’ in the negotiations to appoint him as their new manager.
Strasbourg president Marc Keller and sporting director David Weir travelled along with the Englishman to London.
Rosenior hasn’t signed his contract with Chelsea yet. L’Equipe report he could join them in the ‘coming hours’.
There’s expectation for him to be on bench when the Club World Cup winners face Fulham on Wednesday.
RMC Sport also report Keller and Weir joined the manager in his trip to London. The Ligue 1 side’s officials will hold long talks with Chelsea on Monday. Rosenior will also begin final negotiations.
There’s expectation for negotiations to accelerate on Monday as the English club hope to ‘reach a quick agreement’ to appoint Rosenior as Maresca’s successor.
There seems to be optimism over finalising his appointment soon.